Wunmi Aloba, the widow of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Imole Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has taken legal action against a TikToker, Oladimeji Hammed, also known as Immunizer, over alleged defamatory and cyberbullying content. The TikToker was arraigned at a Lagos Magistrate's Court in Ikeja on a six-count charge related to online harassment of Wunmi Aloba.
Background of the Case
Immunizer had been creating videos about Wunmi amid her ongoing legal dispute with her father-in-law regarding the paternity of her son, Liam. In one video, he allegedly claimed that Wunmi was planning to flee the country amid the controversy surrounding the quest for justice for Mohbad. Following these allegations, Immunizer was invited by the police for questioning and subsequently detained.
The TikToker was later brought before the court on charges of cyberbullying and online harassment. The prosecution alleged that Immunizer used his social media platforms to share insulting, provocative, and harmful content targeting Wunmi, especially concerning her late husband and their son. However, Immunizer pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Court Ruling and Bail Conditions
The court granted Immunizer bail with stringent conditions. He is required to provide two sureties, each of whom must demonstrate a bank account balance of at least N700,000. Additionally, one surety must be a state civil servant, while the other must be a blood relative of the defendant. Both sureties must also provide proof of tax compliance. After the hearing, the case was adjourned to a later date, though no specific date was announced.
The ongoing legal battle between Mohbad's father and Wunmi over a DNA test to determine Liam's paternity continues. Meanwhile, Mohbad's father has publicly accused Wunmi of being responsible for his son's death, citing a voice note in which Mohbad allegedly told his wife that if she killed him, she could not kill all his family.
Public Reaction
Social media users reacted strongly to the news of Immunizer's arrest. Many called for him to provide evidence for his claims, with comments such as “Make he bring his prove” and “All those TikTokers should take their evidence to court.” Others expressed satisfaction that legal action was taken, noting that the TikToker had taken the matter personally and would now have to explain himself in court.
The case highlights the growing issue of cyberbullying in Nigeria and the legal consequences for those who spread defamatory content online. The court's decision to grant bail with substantial sureties underscores the seriousness of the charges.
